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Sons of Somerset #5
The Highwayman's Letter
He waylays her carriage and runs off with her property. Can she keep him from stealing her heart as well?
By day, Reginald Sinclair works in the post office, but by night, he is the increasingly infamous Paladin, the gallant highwayman making young women swoon all over Somerset. With a vendetta against the wealthy that spans both past and present, Reggie's escapades allow him to take justice into his own hands while helping his uncle avoid insolvency.
Joanna Carmichael's father has finally chosen her a husband. While she is not thrilled with her father's selection, Joanna understands it as a business arrangement, something which suits her practicality perfectly. Her father hopes her good sense will exercise a beneficial effect upon her younger sister, Frances, who is regrettably prone to romantics. Frances's preoccupation with reports of the Paladin threaten to overshadow Joanna's coolheaded example, but Joanna is determined to show her sister how foolish and unworthy of admiration the outlaw is.
During their encounter, though, the maddening highwayman takes an item of Joanna's—then has the audacity to send her a letter with instructions on how to recover it, beginning a battle of wills that brings Reggie within reach of the people responsible for his family's ruin and forces Joanna to reconsider the desirability of her business arrangement.
Sons of Somerset: A Clean Regency Romance Series
Can five working class men find love on the job?
This is the fifth book in the clean and sweet Regency romance Sons of Somerset series. Although this working class romance is a stand-alone novel, the books are best enjoyed when read in order.
Book 1: Carving for Miss Coventry by Deborah M. Hathaway
Book 2: The Stable Master's Son by Mindy Burbidge Strunk
Book 3: In Pursuit of the Painter by Ashtyn Newbold
Book 4: An Agreeable Alliance by Kasey Stockton
Book 5: The Highwayman's Letter by Martha Keyes
By day, Reginald Sinclair works in the post office, but by night, he is the increasingly infamous Paladin, the gallant highwayman making young women swoon all over Somerset. With a vendetta against the wealthy that spans both past and present, Reggie's escapades allow him to take justice into his own hands while helping his uncle avoid insolvency.
Joanna Carmichael's father has finally chosen her a husband. While she is not thrilled with her father's selection, Joanna understands it as a business arrangement, something which suits her practicality perfectly. Her father hopes her good sense will exercise a beneficial effect upon her younger sister, Frances, who is regrettably prone to romantics. Frances's preoccupation with reports of the Paladin threaten to overshadow Joanna's coolheaded example, but Joanna is determined to show her sister how foolish and unworthy of admiration the outlaw is.
During their encounter, though, the maddening highwayman takes an item of Joanna's—then has the audacity to send her a letter with instructions on how to recover it, beginning a battle of wills that brings Reggie within reach of the people responsible for his family's ruin and forces Joanna to reconsider the desirability of her business arrangement.
Sons of Somerset: A Clean Regency Romance Series
Can five working class men find love on the job?
This is the fifth book in the clean and sweet Regency romance Sons of Somerset series. Although this working class romance is a stand-alone novel, the books are best enjoyed when read in order.
Book 1: Carving for Miss Coventry by Deborah M. Hathaway
Book 2: The Stable Master's Son by Mindy Burbidge Strunk
Book 3: In Pursuit of the Painter by Ashtyn Newbold
Book 4: An Agreeable Alliance by Kasey Stockton
Book 5: The Highwayman's Letter by Martha Keyes
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2021
142 people are currently reading
456 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
October 2, 2023
4.9 stars rounded to 5 --> I loved it !
Clean romance with a light plot, but the author manages to capture the reader's attention by describing so well the magic of a sweet love emerging between 2 young people belonging to 2 different social classes in the Regency era.
I was skeptical about this story by when I read the first 2 chapters but then I felt totally engaged in this story and I was no longer able to put down the book.
The historical part is also very interesting, I've learned something new, I'll explain better after the plot here below.
___THE PLOT__ Regency era , about 1816.
__ Reginald Sinclair works at the post office during the day, while at night he transforms into a gallant bandit who robs the carriages of aristocrats. He wears a mask and old-fashioned 18th century clothes, but what made him famous in society is the kiss he use to give to women in the robbed carriage.
Joanna is the most sensible daughter of an aristocratic family who has just arrived in Bath to meet the man who should become her future fiancé (or so her father hopes).
__ All this takes place against the backdrop of great social injustice, such as postal franking and the inability of the poor to pay and the privileges of the nobility who obviously not only use the postal service for free, but also take advantage of it for trivial reasons worsening the situation of poor people.
__ Inevitably the paths of the 2 young people cross and from that moment on, something is born: only a game at the beginning and something deeper later.
Challenges and courtship follow up to the point where things become dangerous, both due to the fact that they belong to different social classes, and due to other serious facts that emerge throughout the story.
___ MY IMPRESSIONS__ As I said after reading the first chapter I thought it was a bit silly and that the plot was copied from some old Hollywood costume film: a bandit with a mask, who robs carriages, poses as a gentleman and kisses women .
Reading the second chapter I thought that the protagonist was a bit too naive and the plot absurd, since he spoke to a little mouse (...like Snow White with the birds and other animals), BUT THEN LUCKILY the author got on the right track and with a little humor and the usual brilliant comedy squabbles a beautiful story began with a nice touch of romance.
Don't give up after the first few chapters.
It's a clean romance, so there are no sex scenes or overly racy thoughts, but I assure you that all the time it took to get to the first kiss was truly a suspense of desire and emotion.
The fun due to the protagonists' joking jokes and the pathos due to the tension created thanks to the attraction the two young feel for each other, the desire to spend time together, the shiver on the skin due to a touch of the hand , with lips so close that they tremble with desire but waiting for the right moment, the stomach in turmoil and the dizziness that one feels in the emotion of a first kiss... it is described so well that despite my 52 years and my experiences , I went back in time and relived every emotion I felt when I was young, when a new love was born and I couldn't think of anything else.
Once again I can see that it is not the type of scene reported in a book that makes it interesting, but the emotions that the author manages to unleash within you.
__ THE HISTORICAL PART I didn't expected __
A historical romance doesn't always offer historical notions and when it happens, I think it's an added value: entertainment + new knowledge.
--> One of the central themes of the novel is the gap between social classes and how the privileges of the nobles reflected negatively on the already difficult lives of the poor and workers.
---> In particular it talks about the postal system of that time.
During the Regency period, post was expensive. MPs were the only ones who had a "free" ride for mail delivery and until 1840, they could "frank" (free postage) their letters, but while this privilege should have been limited to Crown business, they took advantage of it also using it for private and superficial communications and giving letterheads to friends.
This weighed on the poor who instead had to pay to receive their letters. Yes ! At that time it was the recipient who paid, if he didn't have the money he couldn't receive the letters, often important matters or messages from distant family members. In the book you will read why this is so serious and in the epilogue at the end the author explains many more things than I am anticipating and also the systems of closing the letters (the envelope was not used and also Reggie and Joanna, in the novel, are using particular systems to block their letters without using sealing wax).
The author tells also about the the subsequent birth of the private Penny post and the codes used by people to write their letters but saving on paper. It's really very interesting!
I hope I was able to convey my enthusiasm to you even in my incorrect English, I am Italian, so please be indulgent with my text.
Clean romance with a light plot, but the author manages to capture the reader's attention by describing so well the magic of a sweet love emerging between 2 young people belonging to 2 different social classes in the Regency era.
I was skeptical about this story by when I read the first 2 chapters but then I felt totally engaged in this story and I was no longer able to put down the book.
The historical part is also very interesting, I've learned something new, I'll explain better after the plot here below.
___THE PLOT__ Regency era , about 1816.
__ Reginald Sinclair works at the post office during the day, while at night he transforms into a gallant bandit who robs the carriages of aristocrats. He wears a mask and old-fashioned 18th century clothes, but what made him famous in society is the kiss he use to give to women in the robbed carriage.
Joanna is the most sensible daughter of an aristocratic family who has just arrived in Bath to meet the man who should become her future fiancé (or so her father hopes).
__ All this takes place against the backdrop of great social injustice, such as postal franking and the inability of the poor to pay and the privileges of the nobility who obviously not only use the postal service for free, but also take advantage of it for trivial reasons worsening the situation of poor people.
__ Inevitably the paths of the 2 young people cross and from that moment on, something is born: only a game at the beginning and something deeper later.
Challenges and courtship follow up to the point where things become dangerous, both due to the fact that they belong to different social classes, and due to other serious facts that emerge throughout the story.
___ MY IMPRESSIONS__ As I said after reading the first chapter I thought it was a bit silly and that the plot was copied from some old Hollywood costume film: a bandit with a mask, who robs carriages, poses as a gentleman and kisses women .
Reading the second chapter I thought that the protagonist was a bit too naive and the plot absurd, since he spoke to a little mouse (...like Snow White with the birds and other animals), BUT THEN LUCKILY the author got on the right track and with a little humor and the usual brilliant comedy squabbles a beautiful story began with a nice touch of romance.
Don't give up after the first few chapters.
It's a clean romance, so there are no sex scenes or overly racy thoughts, but I assure you that all the time it took to get to the first kiss was truly a suspense of desire and emotion.
The fun due to the protagonists' joking jokes and the pathos due to the tension created thanks to the attraction the two young feel for each other, the desire to spend time together, the shiver on the skin due to a touch of the hand , with lips so close that they tremble with desire but waiting for the right moment, the stomach in turmoil and the dizziness that one feels in the emotion of a first kiss... it is described so well that despite my 52 years and my experiences , I went back in time and relived every emotion I felt when I was young, when a new love was born and I couldn't think of anything else.
Once again I can see that it is not the type of scene reported in a book that makes it interesting, but the emotions that the author manages to unleash within you.
__ THE HISTORICAL PART I didn't expected __
A historical romance doesn't always offer historical notions and when it happens, I think it's an added value: entertainment + new knowledge.
--> One of the central themes of the novel is the gap between social classes and how the privileges of the nobles reflected negatively on the already difficult lives of the poor and workers.
---> In particular it talks about the postal system of that time.
During the Regency period, post was expensive. MPs were the only ones who had a "free" ride for mail delivery and until 1840, they could "frank" (free postage) their letters, but while this privilege should have been limited to Crown business, they took advantage of it also using it for private and superficial communications and giving letterheads to friends.
This weighed on the poor who instead had to pay to receive their letters. Yes ! At that time it was the recipient who paid, if he didn't have the money he couldn't receive the letters, often important matters or messages from distant family members. In the book you will read why this is so serious and in the epilogue at the end the author explains many more things than I am anticipating and also the systems of closing the letters (the envelope was not used and also Reggie and Joanna, in the novel, are using particular systems to block their letters without using sealing wax).
The author tells also about the the subsequent birth of the private Penny post and the codes used by people to write their letters but saving on paper. It's really very interesting!
I hope I was able to convey my enthusiasm to you even in my incorrect English, I am Italian, so please be indulgent with my text.
December 28, 2025
5 ⭐️!! One of my top 4 Martha Keyes books! While not perfect (what book is?) this was utterly delightful. Romance, secret identities, a gentlemanly highwayman, a letter carrier, interesting historical details about the postal system, and a midnight waltz on the balcony in the rain?! Don’t mind me still swooning over here.
Content: kisses only
Content: kisses only
October 30, 2021
On the surface this book is a Robin Hood type love story, but all the added layers by Martha Keyes, proved to me yet again why I love her books.
Joanna prides herself on being sensible and logical in her actions. Determined to dislike the highwayman, so many swoon over, she finds herself getting to know him and falling for his charm against her will. Additionally she has befriended a mail clerk she met at a cricket match. Meanwhile, she is trying to reconcile herself to a match with a man who is kind, a bit eccentric, and approved by her parents. What I loved most about Joanna was how she treated Sir Leonard, her intended. While society finds him odd and a subject of ridicule and amusement at times, Joanna takes the time to appreciate his oddities and see him as perhaps more than others, not less. I loved her point of view and goodness in this respect, and it endeared me to her more.
Reggie is also an enjoyable character, who is a bit lost after the unfortunate circumstances leading to his father’s death. He baits Joanna in fun flirty exchanges and through their interactions he learns more of himself.
The book had many swoon worthy scenes that will keep any romance lover hooked, but it also included some history I had never considered. The thing I love about Martha’s books, is that she always teaches me something about history, and in this case she taught me about the frank and the injustice of the postal system at the time. I truly loved reading this book and highly recommend it. Available November 6th!
Joanna prides herself on being sensible and logical in her actions. Determined to dislike the highwayman, so many swoon over, she finds herself getting to know him and falling for his charm against her will. Additionally she has befriended a mail clerk she met at a cricket match. Meanwhile, she is trying to reconcile herself to a match with a man who is kind, a bit eccentric, and approved by her parents. What I loved most about Joanna was how she treated Sir Leonard, her intended. While society finds him odd and a subject of ridicule and amusement at times, Joanna takes the time to appreciate his oddities and see him as perhaps more than others, not less. I loved her point of view and goodness in this respect, and it endeared me to her more.
Reggie is also an enjoyable character, who is a bit lost after the unfortunate circumstances leading to his father’s death. He baits Joanna in fun flirty exchanges and through their interactions he learns more of himself.
The book had many swoon worthy scenes that will keep any romance lover hooked, but it also included some history I had never considered. The thing I love about Martha’s books, is that she always teaches me something about history, and in this case she taught me about the frank and the injustice of the postal system at the time. I truly loved reading this book and highly recommend it. Available November 6th!
November 8, 2021
Another fabulous Regency romance by Martha Keyes, this book was full of forbidden romance, incredible banter, and overall, it was a heartfelt story with a very special happily ever after.
I really liked both main characters in this book. Both Joanna and Reggie had great character depth and I like that they equally needed to grow and move past prior misconceptions even though they were different. The hidden identity aspects were fun and made for a bit of mystery as to how things would all work out. The chemistry was definitely top notch and I loved their balcony/terrace scenes so much! This was also a really neat look into the postal service during a time I don't know much about it.
If you want swoony romance, characters you can definitely cheer for, and an ending that will bring a smile to your face, I definitely recommend reading this book.
I really liked both main characters in this book. Both Joanna and Reggie had great character depth and I like that they equally needed to grow and move past prior misconceptions even though they were different. The hidden identity aspects were fun and made for a bit of mystery as to how things would all work out. The chemistry was definitely top notch and I loved their balcony/terrace scenes so much! This was also a really neat look into the postal service during a time I don't know much about it.
If you want swoony romance, characters you can definitely cheer for, and an ending that will bring a smile to your face, I definitely recommend reading this book.
November 30, 2021
Martha Keyes does it again! Such an intriguing plot for a regency romance and I honestly could not figure out how she was possibly going to resolve everything for a HEA but she does!
Not only was this book a ton of fun to read with all the banter and chemistry (oh my! balcony scenes, carriages on the road, masquerade balls!), but there are so many layers going on in the story as well.
Reggie is trying to avenge the past rather than heal from it and Joanna has yet to decide what she truly wants in life. Add in the suspense with the hidden identity, the mystery of Reggie's past, and some fascinating historical tidbits and is it any wonder that this earned a spot on my favorites shelf?
5 stars for this perfect addition to the Sons of Somerset series and was such a refreshing and unique romance!
Not only was this book a ton of fun to read with all the banter and chemistry (oh my! balcony scenes, carriages on the road, masquerade balls!), but there are so many layers going on in the story as well.
Reggie is trying to avenge the past rather than heal from it and Joanna has yet to decide what she truly wants in life. Add in the suspense with the hidden identity, the mystery of Reggie's past, and some fascinating historical tidbits and is it any wonder that this earned a spot on my favorites shelf?
5 stars for this perfect addition to the Sons of Somerset series and was such a refreshing and unique romance!
December 21, 2022
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this story. A highwayman hero! And I loved his name (same as my son).
November 29, 2023
Very much enjoyed!
November 27, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I liked the mystery of the Highwayman and I loved the banter between Joanna and him. I loved how their romance took time to develop and that there was a constant tug of war between “I shouldn’t but I want to” in their relationship. I like how everything wrapped up and that their was closer for Reggie. Overall, I have really enjoyed this series.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
July 20, 2022
The characters were likable, and the premise was interesting. However, the story never completely captured my interest. There was too much time spent on repetitive internal monologues, which bogged down things down and caused me to start skimming towards the end. Also, the interactions between Reggie and Joanna, while nice and sweet, didn’t feel like enough to base a long term relationship on.
If you are interested in this author, I would recommend starting with another of her books.
If you are interested in this author, I would recommend starting with another of her books.
February 11, 2022
3.7 stars.
This was a very fun read. An unknown hero, who is a highwayman..
I'm having a blank at the moment, but suffice it to say, my reading friends will enjoy this one. I will be reading more of this author in the future.
This was a very fun read. An unknown hero, who is a highwayman..
I'm having a blank at the moment, but suffice it to say, my reading friends will enjoy this one. I will be reading more of this author in the future.
November 10, 2021
This is such a great addition to the Sons of Somerset series! The Highwayman of the title is Reginald (Reggie). He is a post office clerk for his uncle, but is also a highwayman (Paladin) who steals from the rich to alleviate the suffering of the poor. (Robin Hood anyone?!) He has grown quite notorious for being VERY handsome and stealing a kiss from the ladies before he leaves. Joanna is a very level headed girl who agrees to become engaged to a man who only talks about bees and whose mother detests her simply because she knows her father wishes it. Joanna uncharacteristically finds herself obsessed with discovering who Paladin is, and in a twist of fate enlists Reggies help to discover Paladin's (also Reggie!) identity! This is such a cute story. I always appreciate the historical information Martha Keyes includes in her books. It never occurred to me how devastating it would be to receive a letter with potentially hugely important news in it, but be unable to pay for the postage so you could not read it. She always teaches in her novels and I appreciate it so much. I highly recommend The Highwayman's Letter!
April 28, 2024
Martha Keyes is a favorite author of mine! I'm slowly working my way through all of her audiobooks.
This is the 5th book in the Sons of Somerset and series. Each book is written by a different author and have stand alone stories that can be read in any order. I have actually only read 2 of the 5. There has been a common cricket match st the beginning, but other than that and the fact both contain letters, I haven't found a connection between the 2 that would require having read either of them to understand the other.
The Highwayman's Letter is a tale of Reggie and Joanna. They are separated by class and hidden identity. The story is woven with threads of humor and a bit of mystery. I really enjoyed thr whole thing! Well, maybe except for the sister, Francis. I wouldn't have minded boxing her ears occasionally. 😊
I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did an excellent job. She has distinct voices for all of the characters that really helped bring them to life for me.
As always, I love when the author's notes are included in the audiobook!
This is the 5th book in the Sons of Somerset and series. Each book is written by a different author and have stand alone stories that can be read in any order. I have actually only read 2 of the 5. There has been a common cricket match st the beginning, but other than that and the fact both contain letters, I haven't found a connection between the 2 that would require having read either of them to understand the other.
The Highwayman's Letter is a tale of Reggie and Joanna. They are separated by class and hidden identity. The story is woven with threads of humor and a bit of mystery. I really enjoyed thr whole thing! Well, maybe except for the sister, Francis. I wouldn't have minded boxing her ears occasionally. 😊
I listened to the audiobook and thought that the narrator did an excellent job. She has distinct voices for all of the characters that really helped bring them to life for me.
As always, I love when the author's notes are included in the audiobook!
November 4, 2022
Ok!!!! That was super fun and I never knew the 1800s postal system of england could be so interesting. The characters were excellent, the pacing was a steady clip, and I loved the arcs of all the personalities (except maybe Frances). I did expect more highwayman-ing from our hero but when you put it into context, it makes sense and Mr. Sinclair as himself was just as cute.
One specific note: I loved that this was a departure from the usual "girl hates man she is supposed to marry" trope. Joanna's kindness toward a man who is odd, yes, but gentle and harmless, and the ways she tries to make life better for him in any way she can is very unique and made her all the more endearing.
One specific note: I loved that this was a departure from the usual "girl hates man she is supposed to marry" trope. Joanna's kindness toward a man who is odd, yes, but gentle and harmless, and the ways she tries to make life better for him in any way she can is very unique and made her all the more endearing.
December 21, 2021
Money Isn't Everything🎶🎶
The Ballad 🎶of Reggie and Joanna
Fun and interesting CLEAN Regency Romance💕 about the daughter of a Baron about to settle for a second best spouse, a man who is a mama's boy!
When she is accosted by a handsome highwayman, she realizes her mistake, but being a too practical sort, she denies her true feelings.
The book is funny at times.
The Ballad 🎶of Reggie and Joanna
Fun and interesting CLEAN Regency Romance💕 about the daughter of a Baron about to settle for a second best spouse, a man who is a mama's boy!
When she is accosted by a handsome highwayman, she realizes her mistake, but being a too practical sort, she denies her true feelings.
The book is funny at times.
August 22, 2023
DNF. Am I reading the same book as everyone else? 😳😬 the idea of someone holding up carriages to steal from people they've given themselves a pass to steal from, and then KISSING the female passenger? This is the stuff of nightmares for me y'all 😂 I've loved other books by this author so I really tried to power through 🙁 but ewwie no kissing random people please
November 13, 2021
A unique and engaging Regency romance!
This book was fantastic! If you love Regency romance, add this to your to-read list right away. I loved Joanna and Reggie's story, and the highwayman concept was unique and exciting. This book kept me guessing how the characters were going to get their happily-ever-after, and I was thrilled with how everything resolved. I look forward to reading more from this talented author!
This book was fantastic! If you love Regency romance, add this to your to-read list right away. I loved Joanna and Reggie's story, and the highwayman concept was unique and exciting. This book kept me guessing how the characters were going to get their happily-ever-after, and I was thrilled with how everything resolved. I look forward to reading more from this talented author!
December 3, 2021
Excellent novel! I learned so much about the 19th century postal system, it was woven into the storyline so well!
It sent me down a rabbit hole to learn more about letter locking.
https://youtu.be/dzPE1MCgXxo (link to see how Mary, Queen of Scots had locked her last letter to her brother before she was executed.) So fascinating!
It sent me down a rabbit hole to learn more about letter locking.
https://youtu.be/dzPE1MCgXxo (link to see how Mary, Queen of Scots had locked her last letter to her brother before she was executed.) So fascinating!
May 25, 2025
Quite good! A solid effort by. Good author. The penny post history was quite interesting. The male voice(s) in the audio were only so-so.
July 11, 2022
A wonderful conclusion to the Sons of Somerset series! I loved the characters in this story, especially Joanna. Her romance with Reggie was both heartfelt and swoony. I have enjoyed this series so much! If you like reading clean Regency romances, then you should definitely give it a try!
November 30, 2021
So much fun!
Loved this whole series! Especially loved this book. Of course, who wouldn’t love a story about a dashing highwayman?
Clean romance. Each book can stand alone but it’s always fun to read them in the order intended.
Loved this whole series! Especially loved this book. Of course, who wouldn’t love a story about a dashing highwayman?
Clean romance. Each book can stand alone but it’s always fun to read them in the order intended.
November 6, 2021
Joanna Carmichael has always been the sensible daughter.
When her title father encourages her to pursue a practical marriage match to a man she has never met, she agrees.
His prospective fiancé, Sir Leonard, has an all-consuming passion for bees. He is socially oblivious, and allows his mother to guide his life decisions.
Joanna isn't just sensible. She is also kind. Though intelligent enough to be aware of Sir Leonard's eccentricities, she is also kind enough to defend him from the teasing of others. (As someone who knows children with high-functioning autism who are often subject to misunderstanding and teasing, this is important).
On the carriage ride home from meeting her possible fiancé, their carriage is waylaid by the infamous highwayman.
Joanna volunteers to talk to him. After a sensible discussion in which she most certainly did not allow him to kiss her, she returns, unharmed and untouched, to the carriage. Only later does she realize her necklace is missing.
The highwayman sends her a letter, delivered by a charming mail carrier, offering to return the necklace if she meets him again.
Joanna is determined to unravel the mystery of the man now determined to waylay her balcony.
She enlists the help of the charming mail clerk/carrier to unravel the mystery of the highwayman's identity, unaware that the mail clerk is the highwayman.
Can the author deliver a happily-ever-after for the sensible Joanna, the eccentric (and possibly autistic) Sir Leonard, a charismatic outlaw, a compassionate mail clerk, and the poor in Bath who can't afford their own mail?
Read it and find out;)
When her title father encourages her to pursue a practical marriage match to a man she has never met, she agrees.
His prospective fiancé, Sir Leonard, has an all-consuming passion for bees. He is socially oblivious, and allows his mother to guide his life decisions.
Joanna isn't just sensible. She is also kind. Though intelligent enough to be aware of Sir Leonard's eccentricities, she is also kind enough to defend him from the teasing of others. (As someone who knows children with high-functioning autism who are often subject to misunderstanding and teasing, this is important).
On the carriage ride home from meeting her possible fiancé, their carriage is waylaid by the infamous highwayman.
Joanna volunteers to talk to him. After a sensible discussion in which she most certainly did not allow him to kiss her, she returns, unharmed and untouched, to the carriage. Only later does she realize her necklace is missing.
The highwayman sends her a letter, delivered by a charming mail carrier, offering to return the necklace if she meets him again.
Joanna is determined to unravel the mystery of the man now determined to waylay her balcony.
She enlists the help of the charming mail clerk/carrier to unravel the mystery of the highwayman's identity, unaware that the mail clerk is the highwayman.
Can the author deliver a happily-ever-after for the sensible Joanna, the eccentric (and possibly autistic) Sir Leonard, a charismatic outlaw, a compassionate mail clerk, and the poor in Bath who can't afford their own mail?
Read it and find out;)
May 20, 2022
oh my goodness
Joanna Carmichael has no use for romance. Marrying Sir Leonard is completely sensible, and she won’t miss out anything by not seeking a love match. But that all changes when their coach is waylaid on its way to Bath by the mysterious highwayman known as the Paladin.
Reggie Sinclair is a mail carrier by day, but his nightly escapades include stealing from those who have more wealth than they know what to do with. Meeting Miss Carmichael, however, changes his criminal activity into a game he’s not ready for—one involving the heart.
After meeting Joanna at her home in Bath, Reggie struggles with not only his growing feelings, but also with keeping his identities separate. His heart wants more than his station will allow, and Joanna begins to alter his view on the nobility. Will their connection be enough, or will everything fall apart when the truth is revealed?
OH. MY. GOODNESS.
This is easily one of my all time favorite Regency Romances ever!!! The MCs were absolutely fantastic and their connection so tangible. I loved watching Reggie dance around revealing his identity and Joanna work so hard to figure out who the Paladin was. Their banter was so fun and engaging and the kisses...THE KISSES...someone catch me while I swoon. Truly beautiful to watch these characters grow and to feel their emotions with them.
Also, I loved learning about the postal system in that era! Super fascinating!
Fantastic. Amazing. Well written. Can’t recommend this book enough.
Joanna Carmichael has no use for romance. Marrying Sir Leonard is completely sensible, and she won’t miss out anything by not seeking a love match. But that all changes when their coach is waylaid on its way to Bath by the mysterious highwayman known as the Paladin.
Reggie Sinclair is a mail carrier by day, but his nightly escapades include stealing from those who have more wealth than they know what to do with. Meeting Miss Carmichael, however, changes his criminal activity into a game he’s not ready for—one involving the heart.
After meeting Joanna at her home in Bath, Reggie struggles with not only his growing feelings, but also with keeping his identities separate. His heart wants more than his station will allow, and Joanna begins to alter his view on the nobility. Will their connection be enough, or will everything fall apart when the truth is revealed?
OH. MY. GOODNESS.
This is easily one of my all time favorite Regency Romances ever!!! The MCs were absolutely fantastic and their connection so tangible. I loved watching Reggie dance around revealing his identity and Joanna work so hard to figure out who the Paladin was. Their banter was so fun and engaging and the kisses...THE KISSES...someone catch me while I swoon. Truly beautiful to watch these characters grow and to feel their emotions with them.
Also, I loved learning about the postal system in that era! Super fascinating!
Fantastic. Amazing. Well written. Can’t recommend this book enough.
September 14, 2024
Highwayman is angry at the rich. He blames them for his father’s failed bank, imprisonment in debtor’s prison, and death from illness there. He steals to sell those items and pay for the poor families letters they can’t afford. Joanna is trying to fall in love with a grown man-child who loves bees and has an overbearing mother. Reggie stops Joanna’s carriage and takes her necklace without her knowing. Then he begins visiting her at her terrace. They dance at a masquerade. She starts consulting the letter carrier for help in discovering the Highwayman’s identity, who happens to be the same letter carrier. Eventually, you learn that Joanna’s father called his loan in on Reggie’s dad’s bank which causes the run, but Joanna’s father didn’t realize that was what happened. Reggie’s father dies so quickly after going to debtor’s prison that Joanna’s father never is able to right the situation. He gives Reggie money and helps the law forget about Reggie’s crimes. Reggie marries Joanna where they move to an estate.
Liked: how she resolved the bee man. I was worried she was going to leave that poor, nerd lonely and jilted. Unique storyline got genre, end resolved satisfactory.
Disliked: when Reggie revealed who he was that felt overly dramatic, which it was supposed to be a dramatic scene. It just felt like it was trying to hard.
Liked: how she resolved the bee man. I was worried she was going to leave that poor, nerd lonely and jilted. Unique storyline got genre, end resolved satisfactory.
Disliked: when Reggie revealed who he was that felt overly dramatic, which it was supposed to be a dramatic scene. It just felt like it was trying to hard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2021
The Highwayman's Letter is an exceedingly fun book that I highly recommend. Reggie and Joanna have such great wit, banter and chemistry that I looked forward to every conversation they had and couldn't put the story down, eager to see how their story would unfold. It can be a tricky thing to take a would-be villain and make him lovable and somehow justified in his crimes, but Martha Keyes wrote the characters so well that even while robbing carriages, it made you both cheer and swoon for Reggie. I learned much about the postal system and my heart went out to so many that lived in these trying circumstances. So many lived without things that we term so basic in our day. I truly love the clever, unique and refreshing stories that Martha Keyes writes. They are so captivating and filled with a lot of heart and always leave me pondering the story long after I finish the last page.
February 2, 2022
I love all things Martha Keyes!
You can never go wrong with any of Ms Keyes’ books. They are so unique and this one is no exception. Not an ordinary regency romance as this one is between a letter carrier and a lady. Very swooney. The balcony scenes are reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. The paladin scenes are reminiscent of Robin Hood. It’s all good. I love the characters and their banter. Joanna is a good sort and treats all levels of servants and upperclass with equal respect. Reggie also, tries to help deliver letters that the lower class cannot pay for. What? They have to pay for their own mail? I never would have guessed. Reggie is an unsung hero in that regard. Just one tidbit of history that Ms Keyes has uncovered. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read one I will not soon forget. I highly recommend it.
You can never go wrong with any of Ms Keyes’ books. They are so unique and this one is no exception. Not an ordinary regency romance as this one is between a letter carrier and a lady. Very swooney. The balcony scenes are reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. The paladin scenes are reminiscent of Robin Hood. It’s all good. I love the characters and their banter. Joanna is a good sort and treats all levels of servants and upperclass with equal respect. Reggie also, tries to help deliver letters that the lower class cannot pay for. What? They have to pay for their own mail? I never would have guessed. Reggie is an unsung hero in that regard. Just one tidbit of history that Ms Keyes has uncovered. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read one I will not soon forget. I highly recommend it.
May 16, 2025
This book was very slow to take off for me, and I came close to DNF’ing it. I didn’t much care for either MC and that probably played a big part of it… The story picks up, though, and despite a fairly insta-love romance and a rather convenient ending, it managed to claw it’s way up to 4 stars. I eventually became quite invested in how it would all play out, and I finished the book with far more speed and interest than I started.
The MC is a highwayman, and his sketchy morals are what caused my initial dislike of him. There’s a lot of self justification, but I appreciate that Keyes ultimately doesn’t let his shady ethics stand, but rather brings him to a place of repentance.
Content:
There is no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no mention of faith or God.
The MC is a highwayman, and his sketchy morals are what caused my initial dislike of him. There’s a lot of self justification, but I appreciate that Keyes ultimately doesn’t let his shady ethics stand, but rather brings him to a place of repentance.
Content:
There is no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no mention of faith or God.
November 6, 2021
This book was AMAZING! I started reading it and did not want to put it down. It is part of a series but it is not necessary to read the other ones to enjoy this one.
All of the characters in this book were so fun to get to know- even the ones who were not as nice.
I love how this author tells a fictional story with so many historical tidbits. I had no idea how letters were sent/received in regency times. I also loved hearing about highwaymen and gaol. I always end up online researching these things after reading one of her books.
If you’re wondering if you should get this book and read it then the answer is YES.
It was clean, exciting, funny, and romantic- what more could you ask for?
All of the characters in this book were so fun to get to know- even the ones who were not as nice.
I love how this author tells a fictional story with so many historical tidbits. I had no idea how letters were sent/received in regency times. I also loved hearing about highwaymen and gaol. I always end up online researching these things after reading one of her books.
If you’re wondering if you should get this book and read it then the answer is YES.
It was clean, exciting, funny, and romantic- what more could you ask for?
June 16, 2023
4.5 stars. The middle-ish started to drag a bit for me, and I wasn’t liking Joanna at the beginning. She seemed kind of prideful, especially with her “oh, I’ll change Sir Leonard and be the most important woman in his life” attitude. Plus, I’m more like Frances with a heart for romance. So, it took me a while to come around to her, but I really enjoyed her character by the end. I liked how she stood up for Sir Leonard and was willing to ask questions and look at herself from a new perspective. Reggie was a great leading man and I loved their relationship. Cute and swoony. The ending was great. Not as light hearted of a story as I was expecting, but great anyway. A well written story. Definitely checking out more books from this author.
October 29, 2021
A delightful Robin Hood-esque, Regency-era romance with a debonair, brooding highwayman and a witty, feisty and kind hearted female lead. Reggie and Joanna's paths criss cross as secrets unfold and love blossoms, while both characters grow, develop and evolve until they can finally have their happy ending, meant just for them. This novel kept me hooked and had me guessing about the resolution to one of the secrets almost to the end. The writing was superb. The characters, even the side characters, were delightful, and the best part were the swoon worthy balcony scenes that would fit into any Regency era rom-com.
November 8, 2021
I loved everything about this book. Wonderful characters, swoony Reggie is the common letter carrier turned highwayman. Steal from the rich and give to the poor. Joanna is a daughter of a Baron trying to do her duty, by marrying a man that will benefit her family. But when h she has a run in with the highwayman, she gets very confused. I thought it was an intriguing story. Never a dull moment. The story was fun and flirty, but you also had depth and personal growth, in the characters. I always love the authors notes at the end, explaining the historical accounts. A fantastic finish to an awesome series!
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